Sri Lanka Birding Tour

Welcome at the airport & proceed to Chillaw for check-in ( Standard check-in time: 1400h) (60 KM / 2h0m)

Afternoon at leisure.

P.M – A Half-hour briefing with your guide regarding the tour.

Prepare equipment for the upcoming day (Hiking shoes, rain coats, leech socks etc)

Overnight at Chilaw

Early morning (06h00) proceed to Anawilundawa Bird Sanctuary and engage in a walk to witness the different species of birds (packed breakfast). (12 KM / 0h30m)

Tour Itinerary

• Pick up from Hotel at 06h00 and proceed to Anawilundawa Bird Sanctuary.
• Arrival time will be 06h30 at the Anawilundawa Bird Sanctuary.
• Witness the birds around the wetlands and enjoy the packed breakfast.
• Photography Sessions.
• Proceed back to Anantaya Resort by 11h30.

Anawilundawa Sanctuary (Duration of visit : approx 4 – 5 Hours)

Situated between Sri Lanka’s major towns of Chilaw and Puttalam, the Anawilundawa Wetland Sanctuary covers an area of 1,397 hectares and is one of Sri Lanka’s six designated Wetlands of International Importance (or “Ramsar Sites”, named for the International Ramsar Convention signed in 1971). The sanctuary is considered unique for its collision of three distinct eco-systems: the forest wetlands (including the mangrove- and freshwater-swamps); the coast’s saltwater ecosystem; and the freshwater lakes. This exceptional melding of environments has resulted in the creation of a unique ecological nesting and breeding grounds for hundreds of bird species. The tanks are also vital for the survival of vulnerable species of fish, mammals, reptiles and amphibians. The Wetlands are home to more than 160 species of birds; 20 species of mammals; 70 species of butterflies; and more than 50% of Sri Lanka’s freshwater fish species. To spot the rarer migratory birds that visit the area, the sanctuary is best visited between October and April. It is an ideal attraction for bird watching, hiking and boat-ride adventures, and the area is quickly becoming one of Sri Lanka’s most important ecotourism sites. 

Overnight at Wilpattu.

Early morning (05h30) proceed to Wilpattu National Park and engage in a full day safari to witness the birds. (with packed breakfast)

Tour Itinerary

• Pick up from Hotel at 05h30 and proceed to Wilpattu National Park (With packed breakfast & lunch)
• Arrival time will be 06h00 at the Wilpattu National park entrance
• Meet your guide and get a brief description of the route and the safari.
• Starting the safari at 06h30 to witness the different species of birds.
• Photography Sessions.
• Stop for lunch at 12h30 within the park (packed lunch).
• Continue the safari at 13h30 with the guide.
• Return to the Wilpattu entrance by 18h00
• Arrive at the Big Game camp by 18h20

Wilpattu National Park (Duration of visit: approx 10 – 11 Hours)

Wilpattu National Park (Willu-pattu) is located in the Northwest coast lowland dry zone of Sri Lanka. The unique feature of this park is the existence of “Willus” (Natural lakes) – Natural, sand-rimmed water basins or depressions that fill with rainwater. Nearly sixty lakes (Willu) and tanks are found spread throughout Wilpattu. Wilpattu is the largest and one of the oldest National Parks in Sri Lanka. Wilpattu is among the top national parks world-renowned for its Leopard (Panthera pardus kotiya) population. The Leopard population in Wilpattu is still not yet known. Wilpattu National Park harbors 149 bird species including four endemics. There are many types of vegetation to be found in Wilpattu such as Dry mixed evergreen forest, Villus with aquatic vegetation, grassland, scrubland, two rivers and riverine forest.  It’s an ideal location to spot wetland species, aquatic and array of forest bird species.

Overnight at Wilpattu.

After breakfast proceed to Mannar. (130 KM / 3h30m)

In the afternoon visit the Pesalai beach and Korakulam lake to sight the different varieties of birds.

 Evening at leisure.

Overnight at Mannar.

Early morning (05h30) proceed to Vankali sanctuary to witness several migratory birds including flamingos (with packed breakfast)

Tour Itinerary

• Pick up from Hotel at 05h30 and proceed to Vankali Bird Sanctuary with packed breakfast.
• Arrival time will be 06h00 at the Vankali Bird Sanctuary.
• Photography Sessions.
• Witness the birds around the sanctuary and enjoy the packed breakfast.
• Proceed back to Palmyrah House by 11h30.
• Check-out from the hotel at 12h00 and drive towards Sigiriya.

Vankali Bird Sanctuary (Duration of visit : approx 4 – 5 Hours)

Vankalai, in the Mannar district, with its numerous bird species has been declared a sanctuary by the Department of Wild Life Conservation (DWLC), a first in the area since the armed conflict erupted in the north several decades ago. This sanctuary, partly a Wetland, comprises Puliyantivu Island, Tiruketiswaram, Pallimunai, Vankalai and the strips of land on either side of the causeway connecting the island of Mannar to the mainland. Covering about 4,839 hectares, it consists of arid-zone thorn scrubland and pastures, waterholes and tanks, sand dunes, mangroves, salt marshes, lagoons and sea-grass beds and maritime grasslands. The sanctuary declared through a Gazette notification dated September 9, 2008, follows recommendations of the Ceylon Bird Club which has worked tirelessly towards making this a reality. It harbors more than 150 species of bird species including migrants and resident breeders.

Thereafter drive towards Sigiriya. (170 KM / 4h0m)

In the evening stroll around the hotel garden along with your guide to witness the visting birds to the hotel premises.

Overnight at Sigiriya.

Early morning (06h00) proced to Sigiriya bird sanctuary to witness the endemic bird species.

Tour Itinerary

• Pick up from Hotel at 06h00 and proceed to Sigiriya Bird Sanctuary with packed breakfast.
• Arrival time will be 06h10 at the Sigiriya bird sanctuary.
• The guide will brief you about the different varirites of bird species that you can encounter duirng the walk.
• Photography Sessions.
• Witness the birds around the sanctuary and enjoy the packed breakfast.
• Proceed back to Sigiriya village hotel by 09h30 for rest.

Sigiriya Bird Sanctuary (Duration of visit : approx 3 – 3 ½ Hours)

Sigiriya is celebrated among travel enthusiasts as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an ancient rock fortress with awe inspiring architecture. It is however seldom known as home to a significant number of bird species. The forest at the foot of the Sigiriya rock is a preferred habitat of over 65 endemic, resident and migratory bird species.  As a result, an area of 5,099 hectares constituting of forests, water bodies and roads surrounding Sigiriya and leading towards Pidurangala was recently declared as a Bird Sanctuary. A number of raptors such as the Shaheen Falcon, White Bellied Sea Eagles, Grey Headed Fish Eagle, Crested Serpent Eagle and Crested Hawk Eagle can be seen gliding over the area. In addition, a variety of both common and rare species including the Little Scops Owl, Indian Long-tailed Night-Jar, Forest Eagle Owl, Open bill, Orange-breasted Green Pigeon, Green Imperial Pigeon, Emerald Dove, Ceylon Jungle Fowl, Orange-headed Ground Thrush, Indian Blue Chat, Brown-capped Babbler, White-Rumped Shama, Black-capped Bulbul, Tickell’s Blue Flycatcher, Brown Flycatcher, Layard’s Flycatcher, Orange Minivet, Small Minivet, Malabar Pied Hornbill, Ceylon Grey Hornbill and the Blue-faced Malkoha is frequently sighted in the area. Our experienced naturalist will be able to assist those who are interested in learning more about the different species, their unique habitats and behaviors.

Tour Itinerary

• Pick up from Hotel at 13h30 and proceed to Minneriya National park.
• Arrive at Minneriya entrance by 14h30.
• Start the safari at 14h30 and the guide will give you a brief about the birds you may sight during the safari.
• Photography Sessions.  
• Return to the Minneriya entrance by 18h00
• Arrive at the Sigiriya village hotel by 19h00

Minneriya National Park (Duration of visit : approx 3 ½  – 4 Hours) 

The extent of the Minneriya national park is approximately 8889 hectares. Dry zone plant and Animal Species are common. The elephants are a highlight of the park. Approximately 160 species of birds, 9 amphibians, 25 reptile species, 26 fish species and more that 78 butterfly species can also be found here. There are also rare bamboo trees in this park which is unique to Minneriya national park.

Overnight at Sigiriya.

Early morning (06h00) stroll around the hotel garden to spot the endemic bird species.

After breakfast check-out from hotel and proceed to Kandy en-route engage in a short trek at Sudu ganga.

Sudu Ganga Trek (Duration of visit : approx 1 ½  – 2 Hours)   

You get an opportunity to walk through the rubber plantations, pepper, Cocoa and meet the Tamil local community. Then we descend to the Sudu Ganga river “Known as the WHITE RIVER” which you cross by a small bridge. You also have the opportunity to swim in the river.

In the afternoon engage in a Kandy city tour including Temple of tooth relic.

Kandy Temple and City(Duration of visit : approx 1 ½  – 2 Hours)

The Sri Dalada Maligawa or the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is a temple in the city of Kandy in Sri Lanka. It was built within the royal palace complex which houses the only surviving relic of Buddha, a tooth, which is venerated by Buddhists. The relic has played an important role in local politics since ancient times, it's believed that whoever holds the relic holds the governance of the country, which caused the ancient kings to protect it with great effort. Kandy was the capital of the Sinhalese Kings from 1592 to 1815, fortified by the terrain of the mountains and the difficult approach. The city is a world heritage site declared by UNESCO, in partly due to the temple.

Overnight at Kandy

Early morning (06h00) proced to Udawattakele sanctuary and engage in a bird watching trail to witness the endemic bird species.

Tour Itinerary

• Pick up from Hotel at 06h00 and proceed to Udawattakele Bird Sanctuary with packed breakfast.
• Arrival time will be 06h30 at the Udawattakele bird sanctuary.
• The guide will brief you about the different varirites of bird species that you can encounter duirng the walk.
• Photography Sessions.
• Witness the birds around the sanctuary and enjoy the packed breakfast.
• Proceed back to hotel by 09h30.

Udawatakelle Sanctuary (Duration of visit : approx 2 ½  – 3 Hours) 

Udawatakelle Sanctuary is well known to be the birder’s paradise with various species of birds ranging from Indian Three-toed Kingfisher, Stork-billed Kingfisher, Common Kingfisher, Brown Fish Owl, Forest eagle Owl, Wood Owl, Common Hill Myna, Tickell’s Blue Flycatcher, Green Leaf & Large-billed Leaf warblers, Layard’s Flycatcher, Paradise Flycatcher, Brown-capped Babbler, Crimson-backed Woodpecker, Yellow-fronted Barbet, Layard’s, Alexandrine & Blossom-headed Parakeets, Ceylon Lorikeet, Indian Pitta and many more.

Thereafter proceed to Nuwara Eliya en-route visit a Tea factory.

In the afternoon visit the Victoria Gardens.

Victoria Gardens (Duration of visit : approx 2 ½  – 3 Hours) 

Originally established by the planting of an Oak tree by a German Princess who was visiting Nuwara Eliya. The park was later named after Queen Victoria in 1897 to commemorate her Diamond Jubilee. It is popular with birdwatchers at quieter times of the day because of the possibility of spotting the elusive Indian Blue Robin, Pled Thrush or Scaly Thrush lurking in the denser undergrowth. Victoria Park has recorded more than 50 species including endemics and migrant birds, such as The Kashmir Flycatcher, the Sri Lanka Yellow-Eared Bulbul, Sri Lanka White Eye, Sri Lanka Dull Blue Flycatcher and the Sri Lanka Scimitar Babbler.

Overnight at Nuwara Eliya.

Early morning (04h30) proced to Horton plains National park and engage in a trek. (with packed breakfast)

Tour Itinerary

• Pick up from Hotel at 04h30 and proceed to Horton Plains National park with packed breakfast.
• Arrival time will be 05h45 at the Horton plains National park entrance.
• The guide will brief you about the different varieties of bird species that you can encounter duirng the trek.
• Photography Sessions.
• Witness the birds around the sanctuary and enjoy the packed breakfast at the world’s end view point.
• Proceed back to hotel by 11h30
• Arrive at St. Andrews hotel by 12h30 for wash and rest.

Horton Plains National Park (Duration of visit : approx 4  – 4 ½ Hours) 

Horton Plains National Park is a protected area in the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka. And covered by montane grassland and cloud forest. This plateau, at an altitude 2100-2300 meters (6900 – 7500 ft) is rich in biodiversity. Above all many species found here are endemic. Horton Plains elevated as a national park in 1988 and named as a World Heritage site in 2010. Further, it is one of the most visited national parks in Sri Lanka. And located 32 k.m from Nuwara Eliya and 8 k.m from Ohiya. Large herds of Sri Lankan Sambhar deer and Sri Lankan Leopard feature as typical mammals. Similarly, the park is also an important Bird Area. Further, many species not only endemic to Sri Lanka but restrict to the Horton Plains. Such as Ceylon White Eye, Yellow Eared Bulbul, Ceylon Whistling Thrush, Sri Lankan Bush Warbler and Dull Blue Flycatcher. Horton Plains is home to 103 bird species, 24 mammal species, 9 reptile species and 8 species of amphibians. Horton Plains National Park is home to 103 bird species which includes the five montane endemic species such as Sri Lanka Whistling Thrush, Yellow-eared Bulbul, Sri Lanka White Eye, Sri Lanka Bush Warbler & Dull Blue Flycatcher. Sri Lanka’s second and third highest peaks, Kirigalpoththa (2388M) and Thotupola (2357M) are found here. Access trails to these two provide you a great opportunity to spot the highland birds freely because these two trails are hardly used. Apart from these two Argana pool is the perfect place to do the birding.

Tour Itinerary

• Pick up from Hotel at 15h00 and proceed to Galway lands National park to engage in a bird trail.
• Arrival time will be 15h20 at the Galway lands national park entrance
• The guide will brief you about the different varirites of bird species that you can encounter duirng the trek
• Witness the birds around the sanctuary and learn about the names of the birds.
• Photography Sessions.
• Proceed back to hotel by 17h40
• Arrive at St. Andrews hotel by 18h00 for wash and rest.

Galway Land National Park (Duration of visit : approx 2  – 2 ½ Hours)

Galway’s land is a montane ecosystem park, just a few kilometers east of the Nuwara Eliya town. Though it’s not very accessible by vehicle, it makes for a perfect trek for those who don’t mind getting there by foot. The park is well-known for its wildlife, such as the Sri Lankan wild boar (Sus scrofa affinis), the barking deer (Muntiacus malabaricus), and at least 50 bird species at the park. Galway’s Land National Park was officially declared a wildlife sanctuary on 27 May 1938 and was elevated to the status of National Park more recently, on 18 May 2006, mainly due to its montane ecosystem. Along with its neighbor, Victoria Park, Galway’s Land National Park is considered by experts as one of the most significant sites in the country for birding. The park itself is relatively small, spanning only 66 acres, and is also one of Sri Lanka’s youngest National Parks. The walking trail is only about 2 km long, but it’s sure to be an enthralling and exciting adventure for those who are interested in wildlife spotting and being one with nature. Of course, the trek is not difficult at all, so it’s perfect for families with little children as well!

Evening at leisure.

Overnight at Nuwara Eliya.

Early morning (05h45) leave hotel and proceed to Haggala Gardens to witness few of the migratory birds in the botanical garden (with packed breakfast).

Tour Itinerary

• Pick up from Hotel at 05h45 and proceed to Haggala Botanical gardens to engage in a bird trail.
• Arrival time will be 06h30 at the Haggala gardens entrance.
• The guide will brief you about the different varirites of bird species that you can encounter duirng the trail.
• Photography Sessions.
• Witness the birds around the garden and enjoy your packed breakfast with the picturseque view.
• Proceed back to hotel by 09h30
• Arrive at the hotel by 10h15 for wash and check-out.

Haggala Botanical Gardens (Duration of visit : approx 3 Hours)

The garden was established in 1861 as an experimental cultivation of Cinchona, a commercial crop thriving at the time.. The garden is famous for number of species of Orchids and Roses planted there. A wide array of bird species, including endemics, migrants and some rare species can be sighted in this Garden, such as the Greater Flameback, Sri Lanka Wood Pigeon, Black Throated Munia, Black Bulbul, Velvet Fronted Nuthatch, Sri Lanka Dull Blue Flycatcher, Grey Headed Flycatcher, Kashmir Flycatcher, Indian Blue Robin, Green Warbler, Sri Lanka White Eye and the Sri Lanka Jungle Fowl.

Thereafter drive to Sinharaja. (160 KM / 6h0m)

Overnight at Sinharaja.

Early morning (04h30) pick up from hotel in a 4WD and engage in a birding trail in the Ketalapaththala village vicinity to spot atleas 20 endemic species of birds.

Tour Itinerary

• Pick up from hotel in a 4WD at 04h30 and proceed to the starting point of the trail.
• Start the morning sighteeing from 06h00 to 10h30 and enjoy the packed breakfast.
• Photography Sessions.
• Thereafter drive back to the hotel at 10h30 for wash and rest.
• Pick up from hotel for the evening trail at 15h00.
• Spot the different endemic species during the evening trail which you couldn’t witness during the morning session.
• Photography Sessions.
• Return back to the hotel by 18h00.

Evening at leisure.

Overnight at Sinharaja.

Early morning (05h30) pick up from hotel and proceed to Sinharaja rainforest to engage in a birding trail.

Tour Itinerary

• Pick up from the hotel at 05h30
• Arrive at the Sinharaja entrance by 0600h.
• The guide will brief you about the route and the birds you may spot during the trail.
• Breakfast during the trail.
• Photography session.
• Drive back to hotel at 11h30 for wash and check-out.

Sinharaja Rainforest (Duration of visit: approx 5 – 5 ½ Hours)

Sinharaja Forest Reserve is a national park and a biodiversity hotspot in Sri Lanka.  It is of international significance and has been designated a Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage Site by UNESCO on 21st October 1988. Sinharaja rain forest is home to 186 bird species and out of the 33 endemic bird species, all 33 have been recorded from Sri Lanka. The constant data collected over two decades in Sinharaja have shown them to be the largest bird waves in the world. Flock averaged around 42 individuals and 11 species. In total, 59 bird species have been observed to participate in feeding flocks including 18 endemic species.

Thereafter proceed to Tissamaharama. (150 KM / 4h30m)

Overnight at Tissamaharama.

Early morning (0500h) pick up from hotel and proceed to Bundala National park (with packed breakfast)

Tour Itinerary

• Pick up from the hotel at 0500h and proceed to Bundala National park in the jeep.
• Arrive at the Bundala entrance by 05h45.
• The guide will brief you about the safari and the birds you may spot during the excursion. You will get the chance of spotting migratory birds.
• Breakfast during the excursion.
• Photography session.
• Drive back to hotel at 1000h for wash and rest.

Bundala National Park (Duration of visit: approx 4 – 4 ½ Hours)

Bundala National Park is a globally important wintering ground. Especially for migratory water birds in Sri Lanka harboring 197 species of birds. Firstly, on 5th December 1969 Bundala declared as a Wildlife Sanctuary. The Bundala National Park has been identified as an outstanding important bird area in the South Indian and Sri Lankan wetlands. It is also the home of about 197 species of bird, also which 58 are migratory. Park vegetation comprises of lagoons, saltpans, seashore, grass flats, scrubland, and dry mixed evergreen forest small tanks. Above all, this is also known as an important wintering ground for migrant birds.

In the afternoon pick up from the hotel at 1500h and proceed to Debarawewa lake to spot birds.

Tour Itinerary

• Pick up from the hotel at 1500h and proceed to Debarawewa lake.
• Arrive at the Debarawewa lake by 15h20.
• The guide will brief you about the birds you will be able to spot during the bird trail.  
• Photography session.

Drive back to the hotel at 1900h for wash and rest.

Overnight at Tissamaharama.

Early morning (0500h) pick up from hotel and proceed to Yala National park (with packed breakfast)

Tour Itinerary

• Pick up from the hotel at 0500h and proceed to Yala National park in the jeep.
• Arrive at the Yala entrance by 05h45.
• The guide will brief you about the safari and the birds you may spot during the excursion.
• Breakfast during the excursion.
• Photography session.
• Drive back to hotel at 1000h for wash and rest.

Yala National Park (Duration of visit : approx 3 ½  – 4 Hours) 

The Yala National Park in southern Sri Lanka has the world's highest concentration of leopards. Much of the nature reserve is parkland, but it also includes jungle, beaches, freshwater lakes, rivers and scrubland.  In addition to leopards the Yala National Park is also home to substantial numbers of elephants, crocodiles, wild boar, water buffalo, monkeys (macaques and langurs) and many more varieties of large animals. But that’s not all; the park is also home to a large number of birds such as storks, eagles, kites, white-bellied sea eagles, waders, painted Storks, the Indian peafowl, and the Sri Lanka jungle fowl.

Check out from the hotel and proceed to Colombo. (240 KM / 0500h)

Evening at leisure.

Overnight at Colombo.

After breakfast proceed to Airport for departure. (40 KM / 1h 0 m)